president obama believes it is time for the wealthiest americans to pay more in taxes. he has made that part of his negotiating position. he criticized republicans for resisting these tax increases. >> they said the biggest party is making sure we deal with the deficit and a serious way. the way they're beating is their only priority is making sure that tax breaks for the wealthiest americans are protected. that seems to be their only overriding unifying theme. >> the republican party argues it is ready to deal. it is the president and democrats were not. >> there's no single issue that remains an impossible sticking point. the sticking point appears to be a willingness and interest, frankly, their courage to close the deal. i want everyone to know i am willing to get this done. but i need a dance partner. >> if republicans and democrats don't join the dance soon, america will enter the new year and a state of heightened political and economic uncertainty. congress can choose to put a stop to this as soon as it likes. the news americans are wondering when it will do so.